When we want to get out of our car, we don`t expect any issues, rather we think about the place where we are headed to. But a stuck car key can easily make us stay inside our car until the problem is solved. Luckily, there are a few fast solutions and a locksmith is only a phone call away from you. What is highly important is that no matter how upset you may be by this issue, you should not try to forcefully extract the key out. There is a high chance that the issue will become even worse, or more expensive.
Check whether your car is turned off properly
Sometimes, in a hurry, it happens that you can forget to turn your key all the way down to the start position. This will immediately prevent the key from getting out of the ignition, resulting in a stuck car key. While this happens all the time, it is usually the last thing we think of. Don`t try to take out the key forcefully, rather check whether your car is turned off properly. Furthermore, if you are driving a car with a manual transmission, the gear should be set to Neutral when turning the car off. In an automatic transmission, it should be set to Park. Any other gear will result in a stuck car key.
Deal with the locked steering wheel
Another common cause of a stuck car key is the locked steering wheel. Namely, if you move the steering wheel just a little bit while turning the car off, it will lock immediately. This is a safety measure; however, it will result in a stuck key. Also, if you accidentally input the wrong key into the ignition, the steering wheel will lock. Again, this is a safety measure against thieves, but if you as the owner input the wrong key, it will be harder to get it out. The solution is to gently rotate the wheel to the left and to the right while simultaneously extracting the key.
Remove dirt and debris from the ignition cylinder
It may happen that your key gets stuck as a result of dirt and debris accumulating over time. After years of usage, it is only normal that some amount of dirt gets into the ignition cylinder. Most of the time, though, we don`t pay attention to it, and we hardly ever clean the spot. Until the car key gets stuck, that is. The solution for this issue is quite simple. Use an oil or graphite-based lubricant to lubricate the key. After this, it will be able to slide out immediately. Be careful when using an oil-based lubricant as you need just a small amount of it. People have reported over and over again that a graphite-based lubricant is a better option. However, use the one you have and resolve the pressing issue.
Extract the stuck car key
It does not happen often that your car key breaks often. They truly are durable and will last you for years, even decades. Nevertheless, over time the key will get worn out and prone to damage. Even minor damage will result in a stuck car key. Furthermore, if you use a duplicate key for your car, you should know that they are not as solid as the originals, which makes them more prone to damage. Whenever you use your car key you should do it with care, so that it lasts longer. But, if it happens that your car key broke inside the ignition cylinder, you need to extract it.
There is a special key extraction tool. You can choose to use it yourself and not call a locksmith. For this, you will need at least some experience, as you can actually make the problem worse. Be careful not to push any remaining part further down the ignition cylinder. This will make the extraction harder. If a part of your key is stuck inside and you don`t have an extraction tool, try using tweezers. They are small enough and will finish the job in some cases. However, we strongly recommend that you call a professional locksmith to check for any remaining debris, and to replace your car key.
Fix the car battery
Sometimes the issue is not about the car key at all. If your car battery is dead, your key will appear to be stuck. The solution is to jumpstart your car and fix the car battery. Note that jumpstarting your car will usually do the trick, but if there is a more serious problem you should call your mechanic. Anyway, you will need to fix the battery first, before attempting to extract your key. It is vital that you remain calm and not use any force while trying to extract your key. It won`t come out, and it can be damaged if too much pressure is used.
Call a locksmith to help with your stuck car key
This is the easiest, safest, and most efficient solution if there is a more serious problem. A professional locksmith will be able to properly diagnose the problem with the stuck key, and act upon it. They have the knowledge, years of experience, and the right tools. With 24-hour locksmith service, you won’t have to wait until morning to fix the issue. If you try to fix a stuck car key by yourself there is always a possibility that you will cause greater damage. Rather wait for a professional to help you with your stuck car key and car keys replacement.
Try to remain perfectly calm
Any issue with our car can cause us to become frustrated, impatient, under stress. While we worry about the final bill of the repair, the meeting that we are about to miss, or what might be wrong with the car key, it is important to remain calm. It is super easy to damage the key if apply force to it while it is in the ignition cylinder. If we are unable to diagnose the issue, calling the locksmith for a car key repair is the most efficient way to resolve the issue. Good luck!